‘As a pilot study we tested the proposed system with a chronic stroke patient to evaluate how the
mobile arm support in conjunction with a robotic supernumerary finger can help in performing the tasks
requiring the manipulation of grasped object through the paretic arm. In particular, we performed the
Frenchay Arm Test (FAT) and Box and Block Test (BBT). The proposed system successfully enabled the
patient to complete tasks which were previously impossible to perform.’

Imagine robotic extensions of our body with which we could lift and handle objects or other humans with great ease. The idea to physically assist human operators has been investigated with some degree success, but the prototypes remain bulky and difficult to control. This project aims to design and evaluate a novel lifting aid based on good mechanical design, as well as haptic shared control from additional sensor information regarding the task and the human.

eNHANCE was initiated by the Flextension Foundation. The goal of the eNHANCE research is to support and motivate people that have limitations in the musculoskeletal system as a result of for example a stroke or a muscular disease, to perform complex daily tasks. For that support, the researchers want to use advanced detection of intentions of the user associated with a personalized behavior model. Among others eye tracking, a technology where the Brain & Behaviour Laboratory (Imperial College London, UK) has built up a lot of experience with, will be examined. When using an orthosis, forces that a patient can apply will be measured continuously in order to increase the therapeutic effect. Various companies and knowledge institutions in the Netherlands, The United Kingdom, France, Sweden and Germany are involved. The eNHANCE project is led by the group Biomedical Signals and Systems (University of Twente, NL) in close collaboration with the group of Biomechanical Engineering (University of Twente, NL).